Our driving force
To ignite Africa’s potential for prosperity, nurture thoughtful fearless leaders, and become the leading university in Africa.
To set a new standard of educational distinction for our continent, students and educators, and nurture the next generation of African leaders as guiding lights for positive impact in a rapidly changing world.
Our Core Values
At Wigwe University, we embrace a set of core values that define who we are and guide our actions as members of the university community:
These values form the foundation of Wigwe University, guiding us as we strive for academic excellence, personal growth, and positive impact in our communities and beyond.
Other Values:
Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe is a visionary. A progressive business leader, philanthropist, and humanitarian, Herbert Wigwe has been an undisputed leader in the economic and social transformation of Nigeria and Africa. Acclaimed as one of Africa’s foremost corporate bankers, Herbert is the co-founder and Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings PLC, and is credited for moulding Access Bank into the international powerhouse it is today. Herbert embodies the spirit of daring leadership as he continues to revolutionise businesses, lives, and now with Wigwe University, higher education.
Wigwe University is the culmination of his lifelong ambition to build an exceptional, world-class, innovative, yet uniquely African institution to grow the next generation of leaders who will change the face of the African continent. Thus Wigwe University is the African gateway to the world of entrepreneurship, technology, innovation, and impact. Herbert’s mission, through the Wigwe university is to change the course of Nigeria’s future through committed and world-class faculty, globally relevant and locally impactful curricula taught through novel methods to rival, the globe’s most respected universities.
His limitless courage, passion, energy, and dedication to excellence are the foundation of our fearless ethos and spirit. Here at Wigwe University, the fearless, like our founder, will make history.
The truth is that the end to the good we can achieve is nowhere in sight. There’s so much more to conquer. There are more lives to impact and generations to uplift to achieve their full potential. History will favour the brave, those who knew their limitations only because they had to defy them. History will favour the fearless.
Discover the exceptional leaders and experts who lend their insights and experience to shape the strategic direction of our university. Our Board of Trustees is composed of accomplished individuals from diverse fields, committed to advancing education and fostering a bright future for our institution.
Professor Fabian Ajogwu is a SAN and the Founding Partner of Kenna Partners. He chairs the Novare Group in Nigeria (owners of Novare malls), ARM Harith Infrastructure Ltd and NES Global amongst others as an Independent Non-Executive. He is a Non-Executive Director of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc and an Independent Non-Executive Director of Guinness Nigeria Plc.
He has well over two decades of law practice experience in the field of Foreign Direct Investments and Corporate Restructuring in the Financial Services Sector, and Natural Resources Sector; including Litigation and Arbitration in related fields. An alumnus of the Said Business School of Oxford University and an alumnus of the Lagos Business School in Nigeria where he lectures and has taught courses on Business Law and Negotiations over the past 15 years. He is an accomplished writer, he hails from Enugu state, Nigeria. He serves on the board of the Lagos Court of Arbitration as its Vice-President
He is a member of the General Council of the Bar, and the Council of Legal Education (Nigerian Law School). He also served as a member of the Governing Council of Pan-Atlantic University up until 2018. A recipient of Hon. Justice Kayode Eso Award for Excellence, Nigerian Institute of Arbitrators. A Fellow, African Leadership Initiative West Africa, Henry Crown Global Leadership Fellowship, Aspen Institute Fellow, Fellow, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Nigeria, Fellow, Center for Commercial Law Development, Nigeria, Fellow, Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria. Member of the London Court of International Arbitration, London, Legal Research Society, School of Law, University of Aberdeen and member of the Council of Legal Education.
Dr Awosika is the Former Chairman of Access Bank Plc. Prior to this appointment, she was Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministries of Internal Affairs, Science & Technology and Power at different periods. She retired meritoriously from the civil service in 2012. She is an accomplished administrator with over three decades experience in public sector governance. She currently serves as the chairman of the board of Chams Plc and Josephine Consulting Limited.
She is an evidence-based administrator, pharmacist, and bureaucrat. She hails from Delta state in Nigeria. A former Chief Executive of the National Programme on Immunization. Dr. Awosika is highly regarded as the HERO’ of Polio Eradication in Nigeria In recognition of her outstanding services to the nation she was conferred a national honour of Member of the Federal Republic (MFR).
She is a Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and the West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacy. Fellow, National Institute of Directors; Member, Great Britain Clinical Pharmacists Forum. She is an alumnus of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS). She holds a Doctorate degree in Pharmaceutical Technology from the University of Bradford, United Kingdom.
Mrs Mosun Belo-Olusoga former chairman of Access Bank Plc, is the Principal Consultant/Programme Director of The KRC Limited. She served on the Board of Asset and Resource Management Company and previously chaired the Equipment and Leasing Association of Nigeria. She has over 20 years of diverse experience in the financial industry and her wealth spans across Risk Management, Corporate and Commercial Banking, Investment Banking, Transaction Services and Settlement
A leader per excellence and an accomplished professional, she halls from ljebu-Ode, a town in Ogun State. Her life holds attention, mostly because of her unparalleled exploits in the finance sector and her steady rise on the corporate ladder in an industry dominated by men. She is an alumni of the Harvard Business School, Kellogg School of Management, Columbia Business School all in the United States, as well as International Institute for Management Development in Switzerland and INSEAD in France.
She is a member of some local professional bodies: Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. She graduated from University of Ibadan with a BSc Economics.
Tokini Peterside-Schwebig is a Nigerian entrepreneur and business woman. She created ART X Lagos, the first international art fair in West Africa. She is dedicated to defining a new narrative about Africa through culture. After working extensively with brands in fashion and luxury, including the LVMH Group, she founded ART X, the cultural management company behind platforms such as ART X Lagos -the leading international art fair in West Africa and now a cornerstone of the African art sector, ART X Live! which has acted as a catalyst for the local art scene since 2016, a dynamic accelerator for rising musicians and artists; and the ART X Prize – Nigeria’s foremost art award. The fair held its sixth edition this year, both physically and online, with galleries from the continent and abroad.
A keen art collector and patron. She also currently serves on the boards of organisations such as Yinka Shonibare’s GAS Foundation and EMOWAA (the Edo Museum of West African Art) among others. She was named to the 40 Under 40 in Africa by Apollo in 2020, the 100 Most Creative People in Business by Fast Company in 2019, and the Quartz Africa Innovators list of the continent’s Top 30 pioneers in 2018.
Her work has been featured in the Financial Times, CNN, the New York Times, Le Monde and Vogue, among others. She holds a First-Class honours degree in Law from the London School of Economics and Political Science and an MBA from INSEAD, she lives between Lagos and Paris. Tokini hails from Rivers State.
Dr Kenneth Ken-Worgu is the chairman and founder of Nortonel Group of Companies. He is an Independent Non-Executive Director of Access Investors Service Nominees Ltd. Prior to this appointment, He has served as the Head of Operations at Oil and Industrial Services Limited, where he oversaw the new build of two offshores DLB barges and three support AHT vessels in China, developed a healthy opportunity backlog and improved customer satisfaction ratings.
He has over 20 years of comprehensive experience in the Oil and Gas sector with massive and enviable exposure in operations, sales and marketing. A leader per excellence with brilliant interpersonal relation skills. He hails from River State, Nigeria.
He has a passion for commerce, business and commercial activities in Africa. Dr Kenneth holds a Doctorate Degree in Petroleum Engineer from Texas A&M University, Master Degree in Management, a Graduate Certificate in Business, Harvard University, an M.sc in Petroleum and Mining engineering. The Pennsylvania State University, a Bachelor in science in Mechanical Engineer, Drexel University. He is a member of several professional engineering societies including the Society of Petroleum Engineers and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Olumide Soyombo is the founder of LeadPath, a seed capital investment fund dedicated to local tech startups, he focuses on powering revolutionary innovations and ideas in Africa by bridging the gap between the start-up stage and market dominance through funding and structure support. He is also a Co-Founder at Bluechip Technologies where he leads strategy, implementation and projects as he works to build the company into a tech industry leader.
His close to 2 decades of multi-sectoral experience building and managing businesses while investing in both high impact projects and startups. His work is an offshoot of his understanding of the astronomical ecosystem impact inherent in strategic partnerships between tech innovators, technological entrepreneurship and private capital. A leading voice and valuable player in the African Technology and Startup space, he hails from Ogun state, Nigeria and sits on board of organizations. He holds a master degree in Business and information Technology from Aston Business school, England, a Bachelor degree in System Engineering from University of Lagos, Nigeria. As a result of his high scholastic achievement, he is a member of Beta Gamma Sigma society. Olumide is an angel investor and investor educator who believes in the potentials of African technological innovation. He has invested in many of the leading tech startups in Nigeria including Paystack (exited), Piggyvest, Power cube, PushCV, Mono, Trove and over 20 others. He continues to pursue excellence and strategic impact even as he inspires same in others and this can be clearly seen with the launch of Voltron Capital, a Pan-African VC firm.
Uche Wigwe is the Managing partner of Wigwe and Partners, a firm established with a mandate to deliver top-notch legal advocacy and advisory services with international best practices and standards. Prior to the establishment of this firm, he co-founded a law practice; Akanbi & Wigwe Legal Practitioners, whose services attracted an impressive local and international clientele.
A well-seasoned professional with an eclectic mix of local and international experience garnered over twenty (20) years. His wealth spans across Corporate & Commercial Law, Commercial Litigation, Business Formation, Insolvency Practice, Construction Contracts, Conveyances and Corporate Finance/Private Equity.
A brilliant tactician and ethical advisor, he hails from River state, Nigeria. He serves as an active member of the board of directors of Coronation Capital Limited, Trium network Limited and Eko Development Company Limited. He holds a Master degree in Petroleum law and Policy from University of Dundee, Scotland, Legum Baccalaureus (LL.B.) from University of Ibadan and B.sc Banking and Finance, University of Port Harcourt (Nigeria). A dedicated legal practitioner and industry player, He is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the International Bar Association (IBA) and the Association of International Petroleum Negotiators (AIPN)
Meet our Governing Council! They are dedicated to bringing Wigwe University’s vision to life.
By guiding our management and strategic direction, they ensure we remain true to our mission, comply with all regulations, and meet global standards of excellence.
Hon. Justice Amina Augie JSC (Rtd.) CFR is the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Wigwe University’s Governing Council, Her exceptional leadership, integrity and wealth of experience will be in guiding the University toward its strategic goals and upholding its core values of excellence, innovation and service.
She brings years of legal expertise and advocacy experience to Wigwe university. Her commitment to integrity, justice, and human rights will guide our institution in upholding the highest ethical standards and promoting a culture of fairness and equality. Additionally, her insights into legal education and judicial reform will inform our university’s future law programs and community engagement initiatives.
Professor Marwan Al-Akaidi is a distinguished and forward-thinking leader in Computer Science and Engineering. His extensive qualifications include a BSc, MSc, and PhD from Loughborough University, one of the top 10 universities in the UK, and he holds prestigious accreditations such as CEng, CITP, FIET, FBCS, FIAP.
With a robust academic background, Professor Al-Akaidi has consistently revitalized institutions, transforming them into dynamic centers of education and research. His illustrious career spans key roles and significant contributions across several renowned institutions.
At De Montfort University (DMU), UK, as Head of the School of Engineering & Technology, Professor Al-Akaidi led the establishment of the Media Studio and the Creative Technology programs in partnership with the BBC. This initiative positioned DMU at the forefront of media production technology education and research, integrating industry expertise with advanced academic curricula. His visionary leadership transformed these programs into benchmarks for innovation in media technology, significantly enhancing DMU’s reputation and influence in the field.
At the Arab Open University (AOU), as Vice President of Academic Affairs, he expanded academic programs across multiple branches, all fully accredited and validated by the Open University (OU) UK. He launched two international journals, contributing to the institution’s global academic discourse. His strategic initiatives at AOU resulted in the widespread implementation of academic programs, which are recognized for their quality and relevance across the MENA region.
At the American University in the Emirates (AUE), Dubai, serving as Vice President for Research and Dean of the College of Computer & Information Technology, Professor Al-Akaidi founded the Blockchain Centre in collaboration with Dubai Blockchain. This groundbreaking initiative as a pioneer in blockchain education. He also organized and chaired two international conferences and numerous international webinars, further solidifying AUE’s status as a leader in emerging technologies.
Moreover, Professor Al-Akaidi has fostered strategic partnerships with leading universities and global corporations such as Rolls Royce, BT, France Telecom, Toyota, and Nokia. These collaborations have enriched academic offerings and provided invaluable industry insights and opportunities for both students and faculty.
His dedication to global collaboration is demonstrated through the successful establishment more than 50 international partnerships and the creation of new university brands and centers across various regions. These efforts have extended the reach and impact of the institutions he has served, reinforcing their roles as influential players in the global academic community.
Beyond his administrative roles, Professor Al-Akaidi is celebrated for his commitment to student mentorship and leadership development. At AOU, he significantly boosted student retention through the Student Retention Enhancement Project. His mentorship philosophy emphasizes nurturing curiosity and empowering students for success beyond the classroom. Additionally, he pioneered Blended, Online, and e-Learning in the MENA region and introduced MOOCs in the middle east.
His innovative teaching methods integrate emerging technologies, interactive tools, and real-world applications, promoting critical thinking and adaptability. His global impact is reflected in his editorial and chair roles at over 40 international conferences, keynote invitations at more than 50 global events, and the supervision of 45 MPhil/PhD students and more than 100 MSc students, who have excelled worldwide. With over 300 publications in reputable international journals and conferences, he has made significant scholarly contributions. He is a QAA (UK) auditor and a member of accreditation panels for IET & BCS, among others. Recently, he was appointed General Director for the Middle East & Turkey for the RUR Universities Ranking, and he is a co-founder of Eurosis and General Chair of the MESM conferences.
Wigwe University is thrilled to welcome him as a transformative leader. With his profound knowledge and vast experience, Professor Al-Akaidi is poised to inspire our students, guiding them on a life-changing journey from academic scholars to fearless leaders of tomorrow.
Seasoned Legal Luminary and Business Leader His extensive experience in legal practice and
business leadership, brings a unique perspective to our university’s governance. His expertise in corporate governance and regulatory compliance will ensure that our institution operates ethically and transparently. Additionally, Gbenga’s strategic insights into business operations will support our university’s financial sustainability and growth initiatives. He was also a Pro-chancellor of a private university and brings valuable insight from to Wigwe University.
Dapo Olagunju, joins WU Governing Council with rich experience in global finance and social impact initiatives. As the Head of West Africa at JP Morgan Chase and a co-founder of 234Give.com, Dapo brings invaluable expertise in financial management and social entrepreneurship. His strategic vision and innovative thinking will play a crucial role in guiding our university’s financial planning and investment strategies. Additionally, Dapo’s commitment to social impact will ensure that our institution remains deeply rooted in its mission to serve society.
Dame Aleruchi Cookey-Gam brings invaluable
expertise in law, governance, and public administration. Her distinguished career as the first female Attorney-General of Rivers State and the pioneering Administrator of the Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority (GPHCDA) positions her as a strategic asset in shaping the university’s direction and policies.
With a Master of Laws (LLM) from the London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE) and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, her academic credentials underscore her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning, enriching the intellectual discourse within the university community.
Drawing from his extensive background in finance and banking, Mr. Emman Chisor-Wabali offers invaluable expertise in financial management and investment strategies to our university. Mr. Wabali is an experienced Economist with extensive Banking (Commercial and
Development Banking) and professional experience in the public and private sector. His career has been marked by integrity, credibility, and passion for progress to governance efforts. A Start-Up Consultant Compliance and Process expert, he has extensive work experience
following his involvement with the Rivers State Bureau of Public Procurement, Rivers State Economic Advisory Council, Technical Committee on the Review and Reform of Nigerian Deposit Insurance and as Corporation NDIC 2007-2008 Controller Investment Appraisal Department, Industrial Development Bank of India Mumbai. Added to all these, Mr. Wabali will be one of two members of the Host Community on the Council.
Paschal Ainoghena Eruaga currently heads the Legal Division of the National Universities Commission, Abuja. He holds law degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate levels from the Universities of Benin and Sunderland, United Kingdom respectively.
Paschal has extensive experience in matters related to university governance. Apart from playing critical roles in the drafting and reviewing Laws in the Nigerian University System, he has worked as a member and headed the Secretariat of several strategic committees in the Commission. He was a member and later Secretary of the Standing Committee on Private Universities and was instrumental in the establishment of several private universities in Nigeria.
Furthermore, he has participated in visitation panels for universities and various Presidential White Paper drafting committees for federal universities. Prior to his employment with the Commission, Paschal worked with the Barclays Bank in the United Kingdom.
Professor Marwan Al-Akaidi is a distinguished and forward-thinking leader in Computer Science and Engineering. His extensive qualifications include a BSc, MSc, and PhD from Loughborough University, one of the top 10 universities in the UK, and he holds prestigious accreditations such as CEng, CITP, FIET, FBCS, FIAP.
With a robust academic background, Professor Al-Akaidi has consistently revitalized institutions, transforming them into dynamic centers of education and research. His illustrious career spans key roles and significant contributions across several renowned institutions.
At De Montfort University (DMU), UK, as Head of the School of Engineering & Technology, Professor Al-Akaidi led the establishment of the Media Studio and the Creative Technology programs in partnership with the BBC. This initiative positioned DMU at the forefront of media production technology education and research, integrating industry expertise with advanced academic curricula. His visionary leadership transformed these programs into benchmarks for innovation in media technology, significantly enhancing DMU’s reputation and influence in the field.
At the Arab Open University (AOU), as Vice President of Academic Affairs, he expanded academic programs across multiple branches, all fully accredited and validated by the Open University (OU) UK. He launched two international journals, contributing to the institution’s global academic discourse. His strategic initiatives at AOU resulted in the widespread implementation of academic programs, which are recognized for their quality and relevance across the MENA region.
At the American University in the Emirates (AUE), Dubai, serving as Vice President for Research and Dean of the College of Computer & Information Technology, Professor Al-Akaidi founded the Blockchain Centre in collaboration with Dubai Blockchain. This groundbreaking initiative as a pioneer in blockchain education. He also organized and chaired two international conferences and numerous international webinars, further solidifying AUE’s status as a leader in emerging technologies.
Moreover, Professor Al-Akaidi has fostered strategic partnerships with leading universities and global corporations such as Rolls Royce, BT, France Telecom, Toyota, and Nokia. These collaborations have enriched academic offerings and provided invaluable industry insights and opportunities for both students and faculty.
His dedication to global collaboration is demonstrated through the successful establishment more than 50 international partnerships and the creation of new university brands and centers across various regions. These efforts have extended the reach and impact of the institutions he has served, reinforcing their roles as influential players in the global academic community.
Beyond his administrative roles, Professor Al-Akaidi is celebrated for his commitment to student mentorship and leadership development. At AOU, he significantly boosted student retention through the Student Retention Enhancement Project. His mentorship philosophy emphasizes nurturing curiosity and empowering students for success beyond the classroom. Additionally, he pioneered Blended, Online, and e-Learning in the MENA region and introduced MOOCs in the middle east.
His innovative teaching methods integrate emerging technologies, interactive tools, and real-world applications, promoting critical thinking and adaptability. His global impact is reflected in his editorial and chair roles at over 40 international conferences, keynote invitations at more than 50 global events, and the supervision of 45 MPhil/PhD students and more than 100 MSc students, who have excelled worldwide. With over 300 publications in reputable international journals and conferences, he has made significant scholarly contributions. He is a QAA (UK) auditor and a member of accreditation panels for IET & BCS, among others. Recently, he was appointed General Director for the Middle East & Turkey for the RUR Universities Ranking, and he is a co-founder of Eurosis and General Chair of the MESM conferences.
Wigwe University is thrilled to welcome him as a transformative leader. With his profound knowledge and vast experience, Professor Al-Akaidi is poised to inspire our students, guiding them on a life-changing journey from academic scholars to fearless leaders of tomorrow.
Nonyelum (Nonye) Okechukwu, is a highly accomplished, self-motivated, dynamic, creative, and top information professional, diplomat, educator, negotiator, and services provider, of over three decades in the education, manufacturing, and media industries, with a passion for brokering, learning, editing, understanding, analysing, and solving intricate strategic/research/administrative problems using tested and out-of-the-box methods to deliver solutions that will enhance the value and growth of my client as well as enhance the advancement of my constituency.
Her extensive qualifications include an HND in Library Science; a PGD in Public Administration; a Diploma in Peace and Security Management; an MSc in Library and Information Science; an MA in History and International Relations; PhD, in Library and Information Science (in view); and PhD in Diplomacy and International Affairs (in-view). Nonye is a chartered Librarian and Information Professional of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP), United Kingdom; and licensed to practice in Nigeria under the License of Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN). Her other mentionable certifications include an International Academic Writing (Doctorate); a certificate in NGO Management Proficiency, African Management Initiative, a certificate In Management Consultancy, a certificate In Grant Writing Proficiency, and a certificate in International Volunteering, Level 2.
Possessing a versatile background in Information, Public Administration, and International Relations, she started her professional journey at the Manufacturers ‘Association of Nigeria, traversed the Media industry as a features writer and proofreader; horned her skills at the Lagos Business School of the Pan Atlantic University for over two decades as the Head Librarian. Nonye is an experienced professional in overseeing and coordinating organizational operations across multiple functions and borders. Well-versed in process optimization, performance management and team coordination; she is also an accredited mentor with the International Library Mentoring programme. Nonye is adept at developing and implementing strategies to improve efficiency, reduce cost, and increase profitability. She is a self-driven, intentional, collaborative leader with excellent problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Her research interests span the Relationship between Inventory Control and Quality Service in Academic Libraries; Implementation of Educational Policies as they impact Library Development in Africa; and International Diplomacy/Globalization as it affects Developing Economies.
Professor Chinyere Nneka Ukaga joined Wigwe University, Isiokpo Rivers State
Nigeria in December 2023 as the pioneer Director of Academic Planning unit as
well as pioneer Director of Quality Assurance.
She is a pioneer member of the
1st Governing Council of Wigwe University Isiokpo representing Senate.
Chinyere Nneka Ukaga is a Professor of Public Health Parasitology with
research interests in Preventive chemotherapy Neglected Tropical Diseases
(PcNTDs), Skin related NTDs, HIV and Parasitic co-infections, Malaria control
and co-infections.
Chinyere was from Imo State University Owerri where she served in various capacities including Head, Department of Animal & Environmental Biology (Zoology); Deputy Director, Consultancy Services Unit; the Director, Consultancy Services Unit; the Chairman Consultancy Board, the Pioneer Director, Quality Assurance Unit; Member of the Imo State University Governing Council; the first female Director Academic Planning Unit and the first female Dean Student Affairs Directorate.
Chinyere is the immediate past National President of the Parasitology and Public Health Society of Nigeria. She is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Parasitology and Public Health Society of Nigeria.
She is an International Council member (representing Africa) at the International Society of Infectious Diseases (ISID) based in Brookline MA USA and here, she is involved in the mentorship program with 2 mentees from different parts of Africa. She is also a National Executive Council member of the World Federation of Parasitologists (the first African living and working in Africa to be on this board).
Chinyere is the 1999 best graduating Ph.D student of the University of Nigeria Nsukka winning both the Vice Chancellor’s Prize and the Faculty of Science Prize. She was a Federal Government scholar at both the secondary school level (Fed. Govt. Girls College Onitsha) and Master’s degree level (University of Nigeria Nsukka). Her Ph.D. program was supported by the Tropical Diseases Research (TDR)/ World Health Organization (WHO) training grant with Dr. Hartwig Schulz-Key (University of Tubingen Germany) as co – supervisor.
Chinyere has more than 28 years post graduate research and teaching experience. She has to her credit more than 161 publications in reputable journals, produced 55 PhD graduates of whom 5 are presently professors in different universities, as well as numerous MSc graduates.
She has consulted for the African Program on Onchocerciasis Control (APOC) now ESPEN, a subsidiary of World Health Organization; as well as AFRO (another subsidiary of WHO) and has consulted for the Federal Government of Nigeria on the Niger Delta Federal Amnesty Program. She led the WHO AFRO team that mapped Soil Transmitted Helminthiasis and schistosomiasis in The Gambia.
Mr. Bello Adamu Umar is an accomplished University Administrator, Professional Economist, and former Banking Executive with a distinguished career spanning over 25 years across academia, public service, banking, and development sectors. His remarkable journey from grassroots education administration as an Education Officer with Local Education Authority to high-level university leadership is a testament to his commitment, resilience, and dedication to service.
He currently serves as the Deputy Registrar at Wigwe University, Isiokpo, Rivers State, Nigeria, where he is playing a vital role in laying the administrative foundation for one of Nigeria’s most ambitious private universities.
Mr. Umar earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Bayero University, Kano in 1999, and later obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Modibbo Adama University, Yola in 2007. His thirst for knowledge and professional growth has driven him to pursue continuous training in leadership, governance, education management, and financial systems.
Mr. Umar’s administrative expertise has been shaped by years of leadership in top Nigerian universities. Before joining Wigwe University, he served as Deputy Registrar at Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, where he oversaw central administrative functions and deputized the Registrar across academic, council, and student affairs matters.
His most enduring legacy, however, was built at Federal University Wukari, where he spent over a decade (2012–2024) rising through the ranks to become a Deputy Registrar. There, he successfully handled multiple portfolios including Establishment and Council Affairs, Examinations and Records, Personnel and Pension Administration, Employee and Labour relations, and Investment and University Governance
He was severally entrusted with acting responsibilities in the absence of the substantive Registrar— between 2021 and 2023—a clear indication of institutional trust in his competence and integrity. Now, at Wigwe University, Mr. Umar leads a team that oversees Academic administration, Admissions and enrollment, Examination coordination, Policy development, Registry operations and Marketing of the University.
He is a member of key university committees, including the Admissions Committee, Examinations Committee, and Committee on Staff Policy Review, where he contributes to foundational policy development and strategic planning.
Mr. Umar’s versatility is anchored in his early career outside the university system. He spent eight years in the Nigerian banking industry, where he held senior positions at Stanbic IBTC Bank and the defunct FinBank Plc, including that of Relationship Manager and Branch Manager respectively. His roles covered credit analysis, risk management, customer service, and team leadership. His background in banking honed his analytical skills, organizational discipline, and understanding of complex financial systems—qualities he now brings into university administration.
In the early 2000s, he served as a Project Accountant with the International Islamic Relief Organization / Family Health International, working on a USAID-funded project. His strong ethics and financial management skills were pivotal in driving transparency and efficiency in donor-funded initiatives.
Throughout his career, Mr. Umar has been recognized for outstanding contributions. His commendations includes Certificate of Dedication by Stanbic IBTC for successful merger transition (2008), Letters of Commendation by the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Wukari ( in 2018 & 2019), Recommendation by the Registrar of Federal University Wukari for proactive service (2020).
He holds membership in several professional bodies namely; Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Institute of Professional Managers and Administrators (IPMA), Association of Nigerian University Professional Administrators (ANUPA) and the Institute of Chartered Economists of Nigeria (ICEN).
A lifelong learner and capacity builder, Mr. Umar has attended and facilitated over 30 trainings, seminars, and workshops, covering areas such as University governance and policy, Personnel and records management, Credit risk and financial systems, Public speaking and interpersonal effectiveness, Ethics, leadership, workplace safety, and mentoring. He has also authored scholarly and professional papers on Bank failures and financial crises in Nigeria, Money laundering and the role of regulatory institutions, Ethics, personal development, and team building in university settings.
Beyond the office, Mr. Umar has played vital roles in shaping institutional policies, chairing disciplinary committees, advising on staff recruitment and promotions, and leading investigations with transparency and fairness. His work has left a legacy of trust, structure, and accountability in the institutions he has served.
Mr. Umar is known for his humility, sense of duty, and deep-rooted ethical values. A native of Taraba State, he is fluent in English, Hausa, and Fulfulde, and is a proud family man, married with four children. Outside work, he enjoys praying, reading, playing chess, and spending quality time with his family.
At Wigwe University, Mr. Umar envisions an administrative system that is student-centered and globally competitive. With his complimentary roles as a Deputy Registrar, the Registry Department stand to be transformed into a strategic engine room for institutional planning, policy implementation, and academic excellence.
As Wigwe University rises in reputation and reach, Mr. Umar’s vision, experience, and dedication will remain pivotal in ensuring the institution’s success, credibility, and impact.
Green, sustainable, modern, state-of-the-art learning and collaborative spaces where ideas can take root and flourish.
We are located in Isiokpo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Our purpose setting and sustainability goals have combined to guide us to build a campus that evokes the heritage of Port-Harcourt as the garden city. Wigwe University mixes the host state’s natural endowments with sustainable design principles to create an exciting harmony between our campus and its natural environment.
Port Harcourt’s tropical rainforest and indigenous plant species, lost through previous agricultural practices, are actively being reintroduced, whilst stormwater attenuation, vegetation and fauna conservation direct our landscaping. Pedestrian, cyclist and electric people-mover campus routes, along with forest walking/jogging/cycling trails, connect students to our surrounding environment, encouraging a lifelong love of nature.
Our Core Value
Sustainability directs and underpins our university’s outlook. We are aligned and measure ourselves against the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals as well as the Circles of Sustainability tenets for urban development which include:
Principle 1
Development and sustainability must be pursued as goals of equal importance.
Principle 2
All environmental impact must be satisfactorily mitigated and/or offset to every practicable extent.
Principle 3
Sustainability goals are more readily achieved alongside poverty reduction, “real” human development, social inclusion and multistakeholder partnerships.
Principle 4
Our staff and students are key partners in the implementation of our plan and must be educated, equipped, and confident to play their roles.
Principle 5
Monitoring, reporting, learning, and improving are critical to achieving our sustainability goals and targets.
Principle 6
Our commitment to sustainability will be reflected in our overall governance structure.
Policy, Laws, Standards and Best Pratice
Self Sustenance
Pollution Control, Conservation, Resoruce Efficiency
Social Protection and Inclusion
Gender Equality
Sustainable Development Education
Partnerships
Monitoring Reporting and Governance